With the onset of the holy month of Ramadan, markets across Kashmir are witnessing a bustling demand for imported dates, a staple for Iftar meals. Traders in Kashmir valley report a sharp rise in sales, with dates from Saudi Arabia, UAE, Iran, Oman and Iraq flooding local markets across the valley.
The thriving market for imported dates in Kashmir highlights the deep cultural and religious connection people have with this fruit. Despite rising prices, traders are witnessing record sales, with customers prioritizing quality and authenticity. During the entire month dates remain an integral part of Kashmiri households, symbolizing faith, tradition, and nutrition during the holy month.
From traditional markets in Srinagar’s Lal Chowk and old city, to small stores in rural areas, dates in various varieties and price ranges are stacked on shelves. Dates are deeply associated with Islamic traditions, as these are consumed by Muslims to break their fast, following the Sunnah (practice) of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
According to the traders in Srinagar, this year, an extensive selection of dates was imported, catering to different tastes and budgets. The premium Medjool and Ajwa dates from Saudi Arabia are in high demand, while Safawi, Barhi, and Amber dates are also selling well. More affordable varieties like Mariam and Zahidi from Iran and Iraq are popular among budget-conscious buyers.
“During Ramadan, dates become the most sought-after item in our market. The demand starts rising weeks before the month begins,” said Mohammad Ibraheem, a wholesaler at Srinagar. “We import them in bulk from Gulf countries because customers prefer high-quality varieties,” he said.
With dates available from as low as Rs 200 per kilogram to over Rs 2,000 per kilogram for premium varieties, there is something for everyone. Medjool dates, often called the “king of dates” due to their large size and rich taste, are priced at the higher end, while Ajwa dates—believed to have spiritual significance—are particularly popular despite their cost.
In addition to physical stores, online platforms and social media sellers have also entered the market, offering home deliveries of imported dates. Many Kashmiris now prefer to buy dates through online services also.
“Last year, I started selling dates online, and the response has been overwhelming. Customers want fresh and high-quality dates, and they are willing to pay extra for doorstep delivery,” said Mufasir, an online seller based in Srinagar.
For traders and shopkeepers, Ramadan brings a business boom. Many stock up well in advance, knowing that sales will peak in the first few days of fasting.
“Every year, we see a surge in sales during Ramadan. This year, demand is even higher because people are looking for the best quality to serve at Iftar,” said Abdul Hamid, a shopkeeper in Lal Chowk. “Ajwa and Medjool are the most expensive, but people buy them in bulk despite the high prices,” he added.
Street vendors, too, are benefiting from this trend. In places like Goni Khan Market and Residency Road, vendors sell dates by weight, attracting passersby who want to buy smaller quantities at reasonable prices.
With a booming demand in valley markets, cost of premium dates has witnessed an increase due to higher import charges and logistics expenses.
“Last year, a box of Ajwa dates cost Rs 1,500, but this year, it costs Rs 2,200,” said Adil Hussain, a customer at a supermarket in Peerbagh.
Despite price hikes, imported dates remain in huge demand, as Kashmiri households continue their long-standing tradition of serving dates during Ramadan.
